Durock Blue Lotus vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Blue Lotus and the Gateron Type L offer unique features and characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Blue Lotus is well-known for its tactile intensity and swift responsiveness, making it ideal for those who appreciate a marked tactile feel while typing. On the other hand, the Type L from Gateron stands out for its light and easy-to-press nature, with a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum. Both switches have their own strengths and qualities that make them appealing choices for different users. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Durock Blue Lotus features a unique Modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, which provides a premium feel to the switch. This material combination likely contributes to a smooth and sturdy typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Type L utilizes a nylon top housing, known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. While the Blue Lotus focuses on a blend of materials for a luxurious feel, the Type L prioritizes sound quality with its choice of nylon material.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Blue Lotus and the Type L opt for a nylon construction. This suggests that both switches are aiming for a similar sound profile of a deeper and fuller sound. The choice of a softer plastic like nylon in the bottom housing aids in absorbing sound, resulting in a mellower and rounder sound when typing. Despite using the same material for the bottom housing, the switches may still differ in overall sound and feel based on their unique design and construction.
In terms of the overall impact of the housing materials on the typing experience, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. The top housing, on the other hand, influences the sound when releasing a key. While the Blue Lotus and the Type L may share similar materials in their housing components, the design and construction of each switch will ultimately determine the nuances in sound and feel that users will experience. This highlights the importance of considering not only the materials used but also how they are utilized in the switch design.
Weight
In comparing the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, it is clear that the Blue Lotus has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force than the Type L. The Blue Lotus requires 55 grams of force to actuate a keystroke and 65 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Type L only requires 38 grams to actuate and 45 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter switch option. When considering weight, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Type L for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may enjoy the heavier push feel of the Blue Lotus for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, making it shorter than the Gateron Type L linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Blue Lotus offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for faster input. On the other hand, the Type L switch provides a bit more depth with its longer travel distance, which some users may find more comfortable for typing or extended use. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Blue Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blue Lotus for $4.57.
The Gateron Type L comes in at $4.70 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, the Durock Blue Lotus switch offers a bassy sound profile, providing a deeper and richer tone during key presses. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L switch produces a more neutral sound with a subdued quality, offering a quieter and more subtle auditory experience. The choice between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired acoustic atmosphere you wish to create during typing sessions.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Blue Lotus switch is characterized by its accented and snappy tactile feel, providing a satisfying level of tactility without being overwhelming. Additionally, the stepped design of the switch offers a unique typing experience with distinct pre-travel and post-travel sensations. In contrast, the Gateron Type L switch offers a feathery and easy-to-press feel, requiring minimal effort to activate the keys. This light actuation force reduces finger fatigue and enhances comfort during extended typing sessions, making it a popular choice for gamers, students, and professionals alike.
Overall, both the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. While the Blue Lotus excels in providing a tactile and responsive typing experience with a bassy sound profile, the Type L focuses on delivering a lighter and smoother keystroke with a neutral and subdued sound signature. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to individual preference in terms of sound, feel, and visual appeal. Regardless of choice, both switches guarantee a premium typing experience that will surely elevate your keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch or the Gateron Type L linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you appreciate a medium-heavy tactile feel with a snappy response and vibrant RGB illumination, the Blue Lotus may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light linear switch with a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum and a feathery, easy-to-press feel, the Type L could be more suited to your typing preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to consider what qualities are most important to you when making your decision.
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